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ACT's severe weather changes

General facts

Event date

Dec 1911

Heatwave Dec 1911

In the summer of 1911 - 1912 it is estimated that 143 people died as a result of the heatwave. Hot north-west winds blew into the region and affected locals.

The heatwave lasted for days with weather that was humid and carried hot winds. Reports at the time said ice sales soared and hospital patients suffering the most, seeking relief from the heat where possible under shady trees in the hospital grounds.